Interlibrary Loan
Find that "Hard-to-Find" Item
When it comes to finding books, DVDs, audiobooks, and any other type of media, you have more than just one place to look!
Where can I search for, or request, the title(s) that I want?
There are a number of ways! Please search for the items or information that you need in the following order:
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The CWMARS catalog is the first place borrowers should search. This catalog will tell you if the Milne Library has your item. If we do not, click on “Place a Hold” on the title’s record after you have logged into the catalog. Your request typically will arrive within 3-5 days through our delivery service and you will be notified by email when it arrives.
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If you cannot find the item through CWMARS, your next stop should be the Commonwealth Catalog (ComCat). Here you can search for items throughout Massachusetts and request them using your library card and password. Many more items can be accessed there than on CWMARS, but if it’s in the CWMARS catalog already, you will be prompted to request it there!
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Still can’t find what you are looking for? You have options! Mediated Interlibrary Loan requests are placed through a service at the Massachusetts Library System by Kira, the Adult Services Librarian. Please send in your request using the form below, or fill out a paper form when you are next in the building. The MLS looks for anything that cannot be found in the above two catalogs, and have the items either mailed or sent through delivery.
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If you are looking for a magazine or newspaper article, book chapter, or dissertation, for example, ILLiad is a document delivery service provided through the Boston Public Library. Since these are usually photocopies or scanned electronic documents, they will be delivered to you directly by email. For this service, you have two options:
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If you sign up for a BPL E - Card, you can place your own requests.
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Alternatively, contact Kira and she will either email the documents to the requestor or print and place them in the hold drawers at the Circulation Desk.
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Do you still have questions or concerns? Would you like assistance with searching for what you need? Don’t feel like you have to go it alone! Contact Kira Williams, the Adult Services Librarian, at any time for assistance.
Request a "Hard-to-Find" Item
If you are looking for a book (or other media) but haven't had any luck finding it, please fill out the form below and provide as much information as you can. Please follow the instructions above before submitting a request. The Adult Services Librarian will contact you if the item cannot be acquired. If the search is successful, items are typically delivered to the library within one to two weeks, at which point you will be notified to pick up your item at the front desk.
Please keep in mind:
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Requests for very recently published/released items, valuable items and textbooks are rarely filled
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While this service is cost-free, you are responsible for replacement costs while the item is checked out to you
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Sometimes overdue fines apply
Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions! The Reference Desk is here to help you find what you are looking for.